Enzymes are biological molecules that act as catalysts to accelerate chemical reactions within living organisms. They are typically proteins that play a crucial role in various physiological processes, such as metabolism, digestion, and DNA replication. Enzymes work by lowering the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, allowing it to proceed more quickly and efficiently. They are highly specific in their function, often targeting a particular substrate or type of reaction. Enzymes are essential for maintaining homeostasis and ensuring the proper functioning of cells and organs in organisms. Research in this area focuses on understanding the structure, function, and regulation of enzymes, as well as their potential applications in biotechnology, medicine, and other fields.